Enduring Partners

Chapter 7

The sun casts a warm, golden glow through the windows of the Bhalla household as the family gathered around the breakfast table. The aroma of fresh parathas and steaming chai filled the air, creating a comforting atmosphere.

Santoshi, ever the diligent mother, was bustling around the kitchen, ensuring everyone had enough to eat. Mr. Bhalla was seated at the head of the table, reading the morning newspaper, while Romi and Rinki engaged in their usual sibling banter.

Raman sat at the table, a rare grin spreading across his face as he watched his family. The mood was light and cheerful, a stark contrast to the usual tension that often lingered in the household. This morning felt different, special.

"Romi, you seem unusually cheerful today, kisi ladki ka chakkar hai kya?" Rinki teased, raising an eyebrow at her brother.

Romi shrugged, his grin not fading. "Kya ladki ladki huh? Can't a man be happy in his own home?"

Just then, the sound of footsteps approached, and the family's attention turned toward the hallway. Ruhi emerged from her bedroom, her face lighting up when she saw her father.

"Papa!" she exclaimed, running toward him with her arms outstretched.

Raman's grin widened as he scooped her up into his arms. "Good morning, my princess. Did you sleep well?"

Ruhi nodded, hugging him tightly. "Yes, Papa. I had a dream that you and I went to the park and had ice cream."

Raman chuckled, his heart swelling with love for his daughter. "That sounds like a perfect day. Maybe we can make it happen this weekend."

Ruhi's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Really? Promise?"

"Promise," Raman said, kissing her forehead.

Santoshi approached the table, placing a plate of hot parathas in front of Raman. "Here you go, beta. Freshly made, just the way you like them."

"Thanks, Maa," Raman said, his tone softer as he looked at his mother.

Ruhi greeted her grandmother with a bright smile. "Good morning, Dadi!"

"Gud morning, mera bachungda," Santoshi replied, giving her a loving pat on the head.

As Ruhi settled into her seat, she greeted her grandfather and her aunt and uncle with equal enthusiasm. The Bhalla family’s laughter and chatter filled the room, creating a warm and lively atmosphere.

"Mein ek minute mai aati hu, Papa! Aap yahi rukna!" she said, sprinting out of the dining room before anyone could respond.

Raman watched her go, a fond smile playing on his lips. His phone buzzed on the table, and he picked it up to see an urgent message from his office. His expression grew serious as he read the text.

"I need to take this," he said, standing up and moving to a quieter corner of the room. The call was brief but urgent. By the time he ended it, Raman knew he had to leave immediately for the office.

He returned to the dining room, where his mother was still clearing the table. "Maa, I have to go to the office right now. Something urgent came up," he said, his voice laced with urgency.

Santoshi looked concerned. "But what about Ruhi? She was so excited to show you something."

Raman sighed, hating to disappoint his daughter. "I know, Maa. Please let her know that I'll make it up to her. Tell her I'll be back as soon as I can."

Santoshi nodded, understanding. "Don't worry, beta. I'll explain to her."

Raman grabbed his briefcase and headed for the door. Just as he was about to leave, he paused and turned back. "Tell Ruhi I love her, and I'll see her tonight."